From: DAWN@PANDORAS.NACJACK.GEN 22 Tips For Getting More Done by Frances Grimble If you're like most needleworkers, you have more ideas than time. You may have several partially completed projects - some of which haven't been touched in months and materials for more you haven't started. This is a positive sign because it means you're a creative, active person. But an overabundance of projects can become frustrating if you feel you "never get anything done." It may never be possible to do everything. But you can do more if you rethink your schedule and working methods. Here are some techniques that have worked for me. 1. _Prioritize_your_projects_. Generally, it's best to work on one project at a time. List partially completed projects in their order of importance to you. Then list future ones for which you've planned and bought materials. 2. _Analyze_your_feelings_about_put-off_and_low-priority_projects_. If you haven't worked on them because of insufficient time or occasional boredom, keep them on the list. You may have totally lost interest because your taste or lifestyle has changed or because the results were disappointing. If so, admit it. Save materials and partially completed, but usable sections for other projects. Work through the rest of your projects in order of priority. 3. _Alternate_long/difficult_and_short/easy_projects_. You'll feel you accomplish a lot while still being challenged. 4. _Buy_some_things_instead_of_making_them. If you see a wonderful cross stitched item, but the process of duplicating it doesn't interest you, go ahead and buy it. 5. _Add_a_regular_cross_stitching_time_to_your_daily_schedule_. Even if half an hour is all you can manage. You may also want to set a daily goal. But make sure it's reasonable, so you will be able to congratulate yourself rather than bemoaning how little you've done. 6. _Take_advantage_of_inspiration. At times you'll have so many ideas and feel so enthusiastic that the work practically does itself. Try to rearrange your schedule to take advantage of these inspired times. 7. _Don't_abandon_your_cross_stitching_time_for_your_job_or_household_ _chores_. Of course there are other things you're not getting done. You still deserve the time you allotted in your schedule. 8. _Ask_family_members_not_to_interrupt_you. And let an answering machine take calls. 9. _Work_on_your_cross_stitch_projects_while_participating_in_other_, _low-energy_activities_. For example, while you listen to the radio, watch television, talk with friends, or take the train to work. 10. _Work_mentally_on_your_cross_stitch_projects_during_other_low-energy_ _activities_. Schedule planning and problem solving for your daily shower, home chores, or commute. Write down ideas while they're fresh. 11. _If_deadlines_motivate_you_,_set_one. The deadline can be an occasion for wearing or using the finished item or a holiday for giving it away. Or it can be some significant point in your calendar- for example, before you leave for vacation. 12. _If_deadlines_pressure_ you_,_don't_set_one_. If other activities require you to meet lots of deadlines, you may not want to set any for your cross stitch projects. You can compromise by setting a deadline, but make sure it's so far away you can hardly fail to meet it. 13. _Never_stop_work_completely_. Travel or other activities may temporarily disrupt your schedule. Take your project along. Even if you get only a little done, you won't lose touch with it. 14. _Organize_a_convenient_,_comfortable_work_space_. You should have good-if possible, natural-light. Heating and air-conditioning (or fresh air) should be available. Seats and tables should be the correct height. Place frequently used tools in easy reach. And decorate the room so you enjoy being there. 15. _Leave_out_tools_and_materials_. Why spend precious time cleaning after each session? And if the project is handy, you may be encouraged to pick it up. However, fibers should be protected from light, spills, and pets - perhaps by throwing an old sheet on top. 16. _Get_the_most_efficient_equipment_. Not all the tools advertised save time or help you do better work. But some will. I7. _If_you_often_mislay_a_tool_,_buy_two_. If you're absorbed in your work, you may forget where you laid down small tools such as scissors. Keep a spare and look for the other one later. 18. _Learn_the_most_efficient_techniques_. Keep learning new techniques from books, magazines, classes, and experimentation. But use only the ones you really like. Don't sacrifice handwork that gives you pleasure just to complete projects fast. 19. _When_buying_supplies_,_don't_spend_any_more_time_than_necessary_. Yes, it is necessary -and fun- to shop for ideal materials before starting a project. But make sure to get them all-and a little extra of everything. Buy supplies you need regularly in bulk. Send for and save mail-order catalogues. They may list hard-to-find supplies and cut down on errand running. 20. _Store_supplies_in_a_closet_or_chest_. This not only keeps your work space clear, it avoids light and insect damage. Label boxes on the outside so you don't waste time hunting through them. 21. _Get_support_from_others_. Support groups, sewing circles and classes provide encouragement, feedback, and information. And try teaching your friends and family, so they'll share your interests. 22. _Get_support_from_yourself_. Never put yourself down for not being perfect- who is? Congratulate yourself each time you finish a step or the day's work, learn a new technique, or have a clever idea. Visualize the finished project. And enjoy it when it is finished. ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Frances Grimble has been a professional writer and editor for ten years and has been involved in sewing and various fiber arts for sixteen. She recently finished a book titled _After_a_Fashion_: _How_to_Reproduce_,_Restore_,_and_Wear_Vintage_Styles_. For publication information, send a SASE to: Frances Grimble, 20 Meadowbrook Drive, San Francisco, CA 94132